ASPEN — The U.S. Forest Service is making a simple, seemingly insignificant change to its fee-collection system at the Maroon Bells this summer, but the move is tied to a national fight that will end up in the lap of Congress next year.

The Aspen-Sopris Ranger District announced Tuesday that it won’t charge a fee for vehicles that drive to an inconspicuous spot called the Stein Meadow Overlook on Maroon Creek Road. Drivers who say that is their sole destination won’t be charged a fee. Vehicles bound for the three campgrounds in Maroon Valley, the East or West Maroon Trailheads or Maroon Lake will continue to be charged $10. For the first time in a decade since Congress passed legislation allowing fees such as those at Maroon Lake, the Forest Service will ask drivers stopping at the entrance station in Maroon Valley where they are going.

The Forest Service is trying to make sure it follows the letter of the law in the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act. Congress passed the act in 2004 to allow the Forest Service to charge a fee at certain areas that meet specific criteria. A fee is supposed to be charged only when the agency provides facilities or services, such as an interpretation center, bathrooms, picnic grounds or camping facilities.